AYV News, August 5, 2024

In a landmark event for the University of Makeni and its surrounding community, Sierra Leone’s First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio officially commenced the construction of a new mosque on campus. Pledging 500,000 Leones and 250 bags of cement, Dr. Bio’s contributions aim to expedite the project and reinforce her commitment to inclusivity, education, and spiritual growth.

The ceremony, held in a vibrant atmosphere, saw a large turnout of students, faculty members, local leaders, and community residents. The new mosque will serve as a place of worship and reflection for Muslim students and staff, promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding among the university’s diverse religious groups.

In her keynote speech, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio emphasized the importance of religious tolerance and coexistence. She noted that the mosque’s construction symbolizes an invitation for all faiths to come together in mutual respect and understanding, aligning with Sierra Leone’s national goals of unity in diversity. Additionally, she updated attendees on the newly enacted Child Marriage Act, highlighting the dangers of gender-based violence.

First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio urged students and faculty to engage in community service initiatives, stressing that building strong communities requires collective effort. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting educational institutions that promote inclusivity and diversity, noting that such projects are crucial for national development and should be embraced by all stakeholders.

Concluding her speech, Dr. Bio encouraged young people to take pride in their heritage while embracing modernity through education and innovation. She expressed hope that future generations would build upon the foundations laid today, ensuring a brighter future for all.